In order to avoid problems that might arise due to increased volume of goods to be analyzed by the Philippine Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) for radioactivity in view of the forthcoming Christmas Season, the following guidelines based on the recommendations of the National Radiological Preparedness Coordinating Committee (NRPCC), are hereby promulgated relative to the monitoring of foodstuffs coming from Europe and other countries:

1. All imported foodstuffs coming from European countries and imported milk and other infant products from non-European countries shall continue to be subjected to mandatory radioactivity tests by PAEC;

2. All other imported foodstuffs coming from non-European countries shall be subjected to spot-checking by duly authorized representatives of the Bureau of Food and Drugs (BFAD) but only up to January 15, 1987, after which mandatory testing of all imported foodstuffs shall be resumed;

3. A fee of THREE HUNDRED SIXTY PESOS (360.00) shall be charged from importers per sample, payable to PAEC through BFAD, upon submission of samples;

4. Priorities in the analysis of products are subject to sole determination by BFAD; and

5. All samples submitted for radioactivity tests must be sent to BFAD and not directly to PAEC.

It is to be emphasized that the first two guidelines enumerated above were adopted by BFAD based on the findings PAEC, wherein foodstuffs coming from Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, United States and Japan have not exceeded the prescribed administrative control limits, as set forth in BFAD Memorandum Circular No. 1-A dated 19 September 1986.

The guidelines contained in BFAD Memorandum Circular No. 1-A dated 19 September 1986 shall remain in full force and effect insofar as they are not inconsistent with this Circular.

For the information, guidance, and strict compliance of all concerned.

Adopted: 27 Oct. 1986

(Sgd.) CATALINA C. SANCHEZ Director

(Sgd.) ALFREDO R.A. BENGZON, M.D. Minister of Health

Re-issued: 7 Oct. 1991

(Sgd.) QUINTIN L. KINTANAR, M.D., Ph.D.
Director
Assistant Secretary for Standards and Regulation